Jaipur: As Rajasthan prepares to mark the 450th anniversary of the iconic Battle of Haldighati on June 18, the ambitious Maharana Pratap Tourist Circuit, announced with enthusiasm in 2024, is yet to progress beyond the planning phase. The battle, fought in 1576 between Maharana Pratap and Mughal forces commanded by Raja Man Singh I, holds deep historical significance.
Proposed Circuit and Budget
The proposed Maharana Pratap Circuit aims to connect vital sites associated with the valiant Rajput king, including Kumbhalgarh Fort, the battlefield of Haldighati, Gogunda — where he was crowned — Chavand, Chittorgarh, Dewair, Salumber and Udaipur. To kick-start the project, the state government allocated an initial budget of Rs 100 crore in 2024-25. Later, other historical places connected to Pratap were added, and a detailed project report (DPR) of Rs 275.7 crore was prepared. Approval for its execution was granted by the Rajasthan Heritage Conservation and Promotion Authority (RHCPA) review committee on February 3. However, the project awaits final financial clearance for implementation.
Concerns Raised by Descendant
BJP MLA Vishvaraj Singh Mewar, a direct descendant of Maharana Pratap, emphasized the need for conservation-focused development. “Haldighati is not merely a tourist destination, it is a living chapter of history. Visitors should experience the landscape much as Maharana Pratap would have seen it,” Mewar told TOI. He advocated for storytelling through interpretation centres and museums, restoration of heritage structures, and carefully designed visitor facilities, rather than imposing modern, oversized constructions. Mewar urged development to blend harmoniously with local heritage and terrain, saying, “There should be a world-class museum and interpretation system that narrates Maharana Pratap’s struggles and contributions to Mewar. Any architecture must blend with the hilly terrain and local heritage. Large concrete structures could spoil the visual appeal and historical ambience of the region.”
Official Response
In response to the delays, RHCPA chairman Onkar Singh Lakhawat said, “The circuit is not delayed. The proposal is under process and pending before the government.” Officials remain hopeful that once implemented, the circuit will boost tourism in the Mewar region while generating employment opportunities in guiding, hospitality and handicrafts, as well as showcasing Maharana Pratap’s legacy to a broader audience.
